The service is actually very efficient, if you know:…read more
a) they are only open 9am - midday, on week days
b) that as well as the visa form, and a passport and a passport photo you need to take your Meldebestätigung (proof of Hamburg address)
I didn't know either (a) or (b) and so made two infuriatingly unsuccessful trips before finally being able to apply for a Chinese visa.
Another thing worth knowing is that you don't pay upfront - you pay when you pick it up.